A lactation consult usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and includes some or all of the following:

• Review of your and your baby’s medical history as it relates to breastfeeding.
• Observation of a breastfeeding session.
• Weighing the baby before and after feeding to assess milk transfer.
• Demonstration and practice of techniques to help any aspect of breastfeeding that may need improvement (such as latch, milk transfer, pain, etc.)
• Assessment of your baby’s mouth, tongue, and oral motor function.
• Visual and/or physical assessment of your breasts and nipples.
• Observation of a pumping session and assessment of how well your pump parts fit your anatomy.
• Discussion of how much and what method to use in giving supplemental nutrition to your baby, if indicated.
• Instruction in the use of any breastfeeding accessories you may already be using or that I may recommend to assist with breastfeeding.
• Healing and/or prevention measures for sore nipples or breasts.
• Development of a care plan to help you implement the steps you and I have agreed may improve the aspects of breastfeeding that are not currently satisfactory for you.
• Referral to other healthcare professionals to evaluate issues beyond my scope of practice, if necessary.